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1 May 2025

Why Costa Blanca is Spain’s sun-drenched gay travel paradise

In partnership with the Region of Valencia

By Attitude Staff

A split image showing a scenic view of a curved bay in Jávea with turquoise waters and hillside houses, alongside a photo of two men smiling and posing on El Portitxol beach.
Costa Blanca is a haven for gay travellers (Image: Provided)

Tired of the drizzle and desperate for sunshine, sea, and somewhere that actually gets you? Say hello to the Costa Blanca – a Mediterranean escape that’s just a short flight away from the UK and offers everything from LGBTQ+ nightlife to secluded coves and award-winning cuisine in the Region of Valencia.

Located along the sun-drenched coast of Alicante, this part of Spain basks in over 320 days of sunshine a year, meaning it’s always a good time to visit. And with direct flights from the UK to Alicante airport, getting there couldn’t be easier.

A street in Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville, lined with whitewashed buildings, colourful flowers, and wrought-iron balconies under a bright blue sky.
Barrio Santa Cruz, Alicante (Image: Provided)

What makes Costa Blanca so special? Well, aside from its 244 km of beaches and coves, there’s also its unique vibe – a mix of laid-back bohemia and full-tilt fiesta. You can feel the atmosphere of freedom the second you arrive. The locals are open, friendly, and full of that famous Mediterranean charm.

Gay Benidorm

The particularly gay friendly Benidorm has long been an iconic destination for the LGBTQ+ community. The city opened Spain’s first-ever gay venue back in the 60s, and it’s been flying the Pride flag proudly ever since. Today, it’s still the go-to for round-the-clock fun, colourful crowds, and an international LGBTQ+ scene that knows how to party.

A wooden walkway leads through sand dunes to Playa de la Mata in Torrevieja, with beachgoers and waves visible under a clear blue sky.
Playa de la Mata in Torrevieja (Image: Provided)

Of course, the Costa Blanca isn’t just about clubbing till dawn. Towns like Elche, Dénia, Jávea, Torrevieja, and Alicante itself are favourites for LGBTQ+ travellers looking to unwind. Think palm-lined promenades, beach cafés, and day trips to picturesque inland villages with a relaxed, boho energy.

Enjoy legendary Spanish cuisine

A plate of seafood stew with prawns, clams, and fish in a rich tomato broth, served with a glass of white wine.
Alicante is famed for its world-class cuisine (Image: Provided)

Food is at the heart of life here. Alicante has been named the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy 2025, and the local cuisine is built around the renowned Mediterranean diet – think fresh fish, seafood, seasonal vegetables and fruit. Signature dishes include caldero (a fisherman’s rice stew), olleta alicantina (a hearty local dish with legumes and meats), and cocas – a flatbread topped with a variety of sweet or savoury ingredients. Alicante’s rice dishes are so iconic, the city has earned the title “City of Rice”.

Culture, wine and more

Wine lovers are in for a treat too – the Alicante Wine Route offers everything from vineyard tours to tastings, showcasing wines produced under the Protected Designation of Origin of Alicante, known for its diversity and quality.

Whether you’re chasing sun, culture, cuisine or connection, the Costa Blanca has it all – and it’s waiting with open arms…

To start planning your Valencia adventure now, visit the Region of Valencia website now.

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